If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, this Chicken Alfredo Bake is the perfect dish. Loaded with tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and melty cheese, this baked pasta dish is an instant crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, potluck, or meal prep, this easy-to-follow recipe will leave everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Alfredo Bake
- Creamy and cheesy – A rich, decadent combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Easy to make – Simple steps make this perfect for beginners.
- Great for leftovers – Even better the next day!
- Customizable – Add veggies or extra protein to suit your taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients before you start:
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Boil the penne pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns lightly golden.
- Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in ½ cup of mozzarella and ½ cup of Parmesan cheese until fully melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced chicken, and Alfredo sauce.
- Stir well until everything is evenly coated.
4. Assemble the Bake
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Pour the pasta mixture into the dish.
- Evenly sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
5. Bake
- Place the dish in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley.
- Serve warm and enjoy your Chicken Alfredo Bake!
Tips for the Best Chicken Alfredo Bake
- Use fresh cheese – Grating your own cheese creates a smoother, creamier sauce.
- Don’t overcook the pasta – Slightly undercooked pasta will absorb the sauce better.
- Enhance the flavor – Add garlic, red pepper flakes, or Italian seasoning.
- Make it healthier – Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or use whole wheat pasta.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
Yes! If you’re short on time, use a jar of Alfredo sauce instead of making it from scratch.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
3. Can I freeze Chicken Alfredo Bake?
Yes! Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
4. What’s the best way to reheat it?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes or in the microwave in 30-second intervals.
5. Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach make great additions.
6. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Conclusion
This Chicken Alfredo Bake is the ultimate blend of comfort and flavor, perfect for any occasion. With creamy sauce, tender chicken, and gooey cheese, this dish will quickly become a household favorite. Try it today and enjoy a delicious, homemade meal that beats restaurant-quality every time!